Costa Blanca

🏛️ Why Visit Costa Blanca, Spain?

Costa Blanca - the "White Coast" not, despite what you may have heard, named after the skin colour of the Brits arriving here (usually leaving somewhere between gold and red), but after the stunning white sand beaches! 

This flippin' gorgeous stretch of Spanish coastline gives you 200km of pristine beaches, crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, and more sunshine than you can shake a sangria at. We're talking over 300 sunny days a year - that's proper holiday weather sorted!

Costa Blanca isn't just about lounging on the beach (though trust us, you'll want to do plenty of that). From the medieval castle town of Guadalest perched dramatically in the mountains to the legendary nightlife of Benidorm that'll have you dancing till dawn, this coast serves up everything from peaceful fishing villages to buzzing resort towns. Plus, the locals know how to throw a party - so get booking - you have nothing to lose but your boredom (and your pale complexion!)

Top reasons to visit Costa Blanca:

🏖️ Absolutely banging beaches - From the 2km stretch of golden sand at Playa de Levante to hidden coves like Cala Granadella, you're spoilt for choice

🎉 Benidorm's legendary nightlife - Where else can you find British pubs, Spanish tapas bars, and world-class clubs all within stumbling distance?

🏰 Proper Spanish culture - Medieval castles, traditional markets, and authentic fishing villages

🌊 Water sports galore - Jet skiing, parasailing, diving, or just floating about with a lilo and a good book

☀️ Year-round sunshine - Even winter temperatures hover around 17°C, so you can escape those grim British months

🏘️ Best Resorts in Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca's got something for everyone, from party animals to families to couples seeking a romantic getaway. Here's the lowdown on the three absolute stars:

Main Resorts

🌊 Benidorm - The undisputed king of Costa Blanca! This place is like Marmite - you either love its towering skyscrapers and 24/7 party atmosphere or... well, you probably still secretly love it. With two massive beaches (Levante for the action, Poniente for slightly more chill vibes), theme parks like Terra Mítica and Aqualandia, plus more bars per square meter than anywhere else in Spain, Benidorm delivers pure holiday magic. The old town's surprisingly charming too, with proper Spanish character tucked between the modern madness.

🌊 Alicante - The sophisticated older sibling that's got culture, nightlife, AND beach vibes all sorted. This port city combines proper Spanish authenticity with modern attractions - think medieval castles overlooking buzzing marina restaurants. The historic quarter El Barrio rivals Ibiza for nightlife, while the 7km San Juan beach gives Benidorm a run for its money. Perfect if you want a bit of everything without the towering hotels.

🌊 Calpe - The dramatic beauty that'll have your Instagram followers proper jealous! Dominated by the iconic Peñón de Ifach rock that juts 332m out of the sea, Calpe serves up stunning beaches, excellent seafood restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe. The old town's got bags of character, and the beaches are some of the cleanest on the coast. It's where Spanish families come for their holidays, which tells you everything you need to know.

If you wanna try one of the other, smaller, resorts in the Costa Blanca, either search for all holidays in the Costa Blanca using the search bar above, ☝️🔎👀 then use map view 🗺️, or check out: Altea, Torrevieja, Denia, or Albir (great for families).

🎭 Top Things to Do in Costa Blanca

Beyond the obvious beach lounging (which is brilliant, by the way), Costa Blanca's packed with activities that'll keep the whole family entertained.

Theme Parks & Water Fun

🎠 Aqualandia Benidorm – Europe's biggest water park with over 20 slides including the terrifying "Black Hole." The kids will think you're the best parent ever, and you'll probably scream like a child yourself!

🏛️ Terra Mítica – Ancient civilizations meet modern thrills in this epic theme park. From Egyptian pyramids to Roman gladiator shows, it's proper educational entertainment.

Beach Life & Water Sports

🏖️ Playa de Granadella, Jávea – Often called one of Spain's most beautiful beaches, this little slice of paradise has crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and two marine caves you can explore by kayak.

🐬 Mundomar – Meet dolphins, sea lions, and penguins in this brilliant marine park that's educational and entertaining in equal measure.

Culture & History

🏰 Castell de Guadalest – This medieval village perched impossibly on a mountain peak is like something from a fairy tale. The views are absolutely jaw-dropping, and the tiny streets are crammed with quirky museums.

🗡️ Santa Bárbara Castle, Alicante – Climb up (or take the lift, we won't judge) to this 16th-century fortress for panoramic views that'll have you reaching for your phone every five seconds.

Natural Wonders

⛰️ Peñón de Ifach, Calpe – Hike up this massive limestone rock for views that'll make your legs ache and your heart sing. It's a proper workout but absolutely worth it.

🏨 Where to Stay on your Costa Blanca Holidays

Right, here's where the magic happens! We've done the legwork and found some absolutely cracking hotels that'll make your Costa Blanca holiday unforgettable.

Families

🏨 Sol Pelicanos Ocas - This massive family paradise in Benidorm is the stuff of legends! With 794 rooms across two buildings (Pelicanos and Ocas), you've got five swimming pools including the biggest lagoon-style pool in Benidorm with three jacuzzis. The kids will lose their minds over the Katmandu Adventures program, while you'll love being just 300m from Levante Beach. The themed buffet restaurants serve up everything from show cooking to international cuisine, and the evening entertainment program includes live shows based on musicals and sports competitions. Talk about keeping everyone happy!

🏨 Rosamar Hotel - This brilliant 4-star gem defines itself as the "quintessential family hotel" and boy, do they deliver! The brand new Water Park on-site guarantees endless fun, while the spacious rooms (many with separate living areas and kitchenettes in family rooms) give everyone space to spread out. The Spa with thermal pool, Turkish bath, and kids' club means parents get pamper time while the little ones are entertained. Plus, you're just a 10-minute walk from Levante Beach and smack in the heart of Benidorm's action.

🏨 Meliá Benidorm - Sophisticated family fun at its finest! This 4-star beauty offers three distinct swimming pools - a spectacular lake pool surrounded by tropical plants, a paddling pool with slides for the kids, and an indoor heated pool for year-round splashing. The 135 rooms are elegantly designed with Mediterranean flair, and many family rooms feature interconnecting options. The Kidsdom club (ages 5-11) will keep the little ones busy, while adults can enjoy the wellness center and gym.

Great Value Options

🏨 Primavera Loix - These brilliant self-catering apartments are perfect for families and groups wanting excellent value! Each apartment features a fully equipped kitchenette (microwave, oven, fridge, hob) which is great for saving money, or for those with lots of dietaries. The complex boasts an outdoor pool with two jacuzzis, poolside bar, and sun terrace. Located on a quiet street but just a 5-minute walk from bars, restaurants, and Benidorm's entertainment strip, it's the perfect base for exploring while having your own space to relax.

🏨 Dynastic Hotel - A modern choice that's ideal for families and couples seeking brilliant value without compromising on comfort. This contemporary hotel offers excellent amenities and is perfectly positioned for exploring Benidorm's attractions.

🏨 Sol Pelicanos Ocas - Yes, it appears in both categories because it's just that good! This Meliá property offers incredible value for money with its five pools, massive range of facilities, and prime location. The all-inclusive option is particularly brilliant for families - unlimited drinks, ice cream, and access to themed restaurants means no nasty surprises on the bill.

Perfect for Groups

🏨 BCL Levante Club & Spa - This adults-recommended 4-star gem is brilliant for sophisticated group getaways! With spacious rooms, four bars, conference facilities, and a luxurious Luxor Spa featuring swimming pools, saunas, and massage services, it's perfect for groups wanting both relaxation and entertainment. Just note - they don't accept bookings of 3+ rooms, so you'll need to book strategically!

🏨 Estimar Calpe Apartments - These modern apartments in Calpe offer the perfect base for groups wanting independence with hotel-style amenities. The self-catering facilities mean you can cook up a storm together, while the shared spaces provide plenty of room for group gatherings and celebrations.

🏨 Flash Hotel - This vibrant adults-only 4-star hotel is absolutely perfect for groups wanting to be in the heart of the action! With an outdoor pool, gym, sauna, buffet restaurant, and two bars (including a sports bar), plus evening entertainment and themed dinners, it's designed for group fun. The location puts you within walking distance of all Benidorm's legendary nightlife, making it perfect for group celebrations!

More Elegant & Romantic Options

🏨 SH Villa Gadea - This absolutely stunning 5-star masterpiece near Altea is romance personified! Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, this architectural gem offers luxurious rooms featuring whirlpool baths and separate showers. The deluxe rooms even have a second whirlpool on the terrace - how's that for indulgent? With four restaurants and three swimming pools surrounded by tropical gardens, this is luxury with a capital L.

🏨 Sandos Monaco - This chic adults-only 4-star gem (16+ only) in Benidorm is pure sophistication! With elegantly designed rooms featuring soundproof windows and private balconies with panoramic views, you're guaranteed peace and romance in the heart of the action. The luxurious Sandos Suites include two furnished balconies, hydromassage showers, soaking tubs, and views of the outdoor pools and Benidorm skyline. 

🏨 INNSide by Meliá Costa Blanca - This modern adults-recommended beachfront beauty is elegance in action! Situated right on magnificent Levante Beach in the heart of Benidorm's entertainment district, the hotel offers carpeted rooms with private balconies and Mediterranean views. It's perfect for couples seeking sophisticated comfort with easy access to culture and nightlife.

🏨 Barceló Benidorm Beach - This stunning adults-recommended 4-star hotel is pure beachfront luxury! The crown jewel is the rooftop B-Heaven bar with its own pool, sun terrace, and panoramic Benidorm skyline views - absolutely perfect for sunset cocktails. With three restaurants including La Santa María's "travelling tapas" and a complete fitness area, this hotel combines modern glamour with Mediterranean charm.

The beauty of Costa Blanca is that whether you're after family fun, group celebrations, or romantic escapes, there's a perfect base waiting for you. From budget-friendly options that don't skimp on the fun to luxury retreats that'll make you feel like royalty, this coast knows how to do hospitality right!

💰 How to Have a Brilliant (and Very Cheap) Costa Blanca Holiday

Listen, we get it - holidays can be expensive, but Costa Blanca is brilliant value anyway, and it’s a great place for stretching your euros further than you'd think possible. Here's how to have a proper good time without breaking the bank:

When to Go Travel during shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November) when weather's still gorgeous but prices drop like a stone. You'll avoid summer crowds and still enjoy 20°C temperatures!

Smart Savings

• Self-catering apartments - Grab a villa with a kitchen and save a fortune on meals

• All-inclusive deals - For families, this often works out cheaper with no sneaky bar bill surprises

• Menu del día - Local restaurant lunch menus with three courses for under €15

• Local supermarkets - Mercadona and Lidl are everywhere for cheap snacks and beach supplies

Free Fun The best bit? Costa Blanca's top attractions won't cost you a penny! Gorgeous beaches, local markets for entertainment and cheap souvenirs, incredible hiking trails with million-euro views, and loads of towns offering free museum days.

Getting About Local buses connect all major towns cheaply, most resort centers are walkable, and many hotels offer free airport transfers - just ask before booking expensive taxis.

The brilliant thing about Costa Blanca is that the best things really are free - sunshine, beaches, friendly locals, and that amazing Mediterranean lifestyle. Cheap doesn't mean cheerless here - this coast has been perfecting affordable holidays for decades!